Enlarge swap file under Windows 7

If Windows 7 issues a warning that the virtual memory is insufficient, you must enlarge the swap file. We'll show you how it's done.

Windows 7: Change swap file

Laypersons should only change the size of the paging file if it is absolutely necessary.

1. Click the Windows button at the bottom left of the screen so that the start menu opens.
2. Select the "Control Panel" on the right side.
3. Click on "System and Security" above and then on "System".
4. On the left side you will find the "Extended system settings" as the bottom function. Click on this and confirm the security question by clicking on "Yes".
5. A new window opens in which you click on the "Settings" button under "Performance".
6. In the next window, select the "Advanced" tab and click on the "Change" button below.
7. Now you are in the virtual memory settings. Remove the tick at the top and activate the "User-defined size" item. This is how you can configure the swap file.
8. If you have received the message that the virtual memory is not sufficient, you should exceed or fall below the minimum and maximum values ​​shown at the bottom (see image).
9. Then close all three windows with a click on "OK" so that the settings are saved. If you have reduced the swap file, you may need to restart. This is usually not necessary for enlargements.

Attention: Under no circumstances deactivate or delete the swap file! Otherwise there may be problems with the system.